Xinhua News Agency, the official media of Singapore, reported on its front page that Singapore's Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun in Tokyo. Lee said that Singapore is a trusted and reliable partner for Japan, and urged both countries to continue cultivating and strengthening their cooperation.
On Monday (August 25), Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba presented the Order of the Rising Sun to Senior Minister Lee at the Prime Minister's Office on behalf of Emperor Naruhito of Japan. This is the oldest and highest honor medal in Japan, awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Japan and its people.
In his acceptance speech, Lee said that he humbly accepted this honor on behalf of several generations of Singaporeans who have worked together with Japanese partners over the decades to strengthen bilateral relations.
He pointed out that the close and multifaceted relationship between Singapore and Japan is based on the close economic exchanges, civilian exchanges, aligned strategic perspectives, and shared interests between the two countries, which are also the results of the continuous efforts of leaders of both countries. "They have nurtured this relationship over the years. They look to the future, set aside difficult history, and are determined to cooperate based on shared interests."
Lee said that Japan is a firm friend and partner of Singapore and the region. As the global situation enters an unprecedented stage, Singapore and Japan must strengthen their cooperation more than ever before, working together to promote regional peace and prosperity, as well as a rules-based multilateral order. "Singapore has always been, and will continue to be, a trusted and reliable partner for Japan in this common cause."
When congratulating Lee Hsien Loong, Ishiba called Senior Minister Lee a good friend of Japan and an important leader in Asia. He said that Lee has supported Japan's initiatives proposed at international conferences and has contributed to enhancing understanding and friendly relations between Japan and Singapore.
Ishiba also recalled that he had met Lee multiple times, including when he was the defense minister 17 years ago, and Lee's thoughtful remarks left a deep impression on him.
The Order of the Rising Sun was established in 1875. Notable Singaporean political figures and officials who have received this award include the late founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew (1967), former Singapore Ambassador to Japan Lim Chin Siong (2004), Honorary Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong (2011), and former Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Tony Tan (2012).
Before receiving the honor, Lee met with Ishiba for about 25 minutes, and then had lunch together.
According to a statement from the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lee and Ishiba reviewed the solid and extensive bilateral relations between Singapore and Japan in politics, economy, and civil exchanges, and affirmed the deep and lasting friendship between the two countries. They also discussed ways to enhance and expand cooperation between the two countries in trade, security, digital, and green areas.
Next year marks the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Japan diplomatic relations. Singapore will also serve as the coordinator of the ASEAN-Japan Dialogue Partnership from 2024 to 2027.
Lee and Ishiba expressed their appreciation for the enhanced cooperation between the two countries that strengthens the relationship between Japan and ASEAN.
According to a statement from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ishiba hopes that on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Japan-Singapore diplomatic relations next year, the bilateral relationship between Japan and Singapore, which shares common values and principles, will become even stronger.
Japanese leaders such as former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, current Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, and former Foreign Minister Taro Aso also attended the ceremony and congratulated Lee Hsien Loong.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841472769001536/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.